The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) proclaimed Apr. 28– May 5, 2024, as Stewardship Week, marking the 69th year of the national event. In celebration of Stewardship Week, NACD sponsors a poster contest. In collaboration with NACD, the Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District is sponsored a Poster Contest. Corresponding with stewardship week, the Poster Contest was themed “May the Forest Be with You, Always.” The phrase, “May the forest be with you, always”, carries a message of respect, appreciation, and harmony with nature, specifically highlighting the forest environment. It suggests that we should recognize the value of forests and the benefits they provide to us and for our future generations.
Forests are vital ecosystems that support diverse plant and animal life. They provide clean air and water, give us food, fuel, and other forest products, as well as help combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide. They offer recreational opportunities, serve as habitats for wildlife, and contribute to the overall well-being of the planet.
By saying “May the forest be with you, always,” it’s a way of expressing a desire for people to be mindful of the forests and to maintain a strong connection with nature. It encourages us to protect and preserve these important natural resources so that they can continue to thrive and benefit us in the long run. Forestry is a cornerstone of natural resource conservation, promoting the responsible use of forests to meet human needs while safeguarding the ecological, social, and economic benefits these ecosystems provide. Through science-based management and conservation efforts, we can ensure that our forests remain healthy and resilient for future generations.
The Geauga SWCD received numerous entries this year. The winners of this year’s contest are as follows: Grades K-1: 1st place– Franklin Heimovitz; Grades 2-3: 1st place– Delilah Heimovitz and and 2nd place– Finley McMillion; Grades 4-6: 1st place– James (Paul) Winningham and 2nd place– Amelia Shively; and Grades 7-9: 1st place– Janna Winningham and 2nd place–Bethany Shively. Winners will be recognized at the Geauga SWCD Annual Dinner Meeting on October 10th at Veterans Legacy Woods.
The first-place winners of each category move on to the State Competition. Congratulations to all of the talented youth of Geauga County and visit the District website at www.geaugaswcd.com to view the 2024 winning posters.
For information about Stewardship Week and the Conservation Poster Contest, contact Katie Nainiger at knainiger@geauga.oh.gov or 1-440-834-1122 or visit www.geaugaswcd.com. Additional information about Stewardship Week is available on the NACD website at www.nacdnet.org.
